Lumbar Packs

When you don't need the capacity of a full-sized backpack but still need to carry a few bits and pieces, lumbar packs are the ideal answer. The smaller ones are ideal for your keys, wallet, and cell phone (which will be easy to access when you carry it on your hip), and the larger ones work well for water bottles, camera equipment, snacks, maps, and first aid kits.

SORT:

The North Face Roo II Lumbar PackASUA

Nathan Peak Waist Pack4873N

Patagonia Lightweight Travel Mini Hip Pack 1L49445

Patagonia Lightweight Travel Hip Pack48450

$33.95

$39.95$23.97

$29.00

$39.00

Nathan Phantom Pak4801N

Nathan Speed 2R Auto-Cant Hydration Belt4627N

Dakine Classic Hip Pack8130205

Nathan Trail Mix Hydration Belt4625N

$14.97 - $20.97

$54.95$32.97

$19.95

$44.95$26.97

Jansport Fifth Avenue PackTAN1

Camelbak Arc 2 10 oz Podium Arc Bottle62013

Nathan Speed 2 Hydration Belt4619N

Outdoor Research Sensor Dry Holster36011

$16.95

$44.95$35.96

$49.95$29.97

$69.00$55.20

Camelbak Arc 2 10 oz Podium Arc Bottle62011

Nathan VaporStorm Hydration Pack4519NB

Mountainsmith Tour TLS Recycled Lumbar Pack12-10037R

Nathan Trail Mix 4 Hydration Belt4626N

$44.95$35.96

$49.95$23.98

$74.95

$43.96

Mountainsmith Vibe TLS Lumbar Pack12-10040R

$29.95

The more generous lumbar bags are popular with off-road runners. When you want to run fast and light with the minimum of gear, putting it into a backpack usually means it'll bounce around. That's unstable and uncomfortable where a smaller hip pouch is perfectly stable. The items inside won't be shaken up too much and there won't be any chafing from a shifting load. The best choices are those than include a water bottle or two- if you get a dual bottle version, try filling one with water and the other with an electrolyte replacement drink. Just make sure to remember which is which or you might surprise yourself!